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Spring is Near - Here Come the Camellias and Magnolias

© Gay Klok

SPRING IS COMING FAST, LOOK AT THE BLOSSOMS

Gardeners and farmers have the well-justified reputation for being the most persistent wingers in the world. When the Weather bureau tells us that the average rainfall is below average, we chatter daily about this year being the worse drought we can remember. When the rains begin we really come into our own, complaining constantly that we are unable to get into the garden, and though there are rivers running through our garden, the rain is still not reaching our subsoil because of the frightful dryness the garden suffered two months ago. We are an ornery lot This year Winter has been very temperate and Spring is fast stretching her arms from her Winter's sleep. The blossom is already full and very gay, the laden branches of the trees beautiful against the blue skies. The daffodils, welcoming the extra rainfall, seem brighter, larger and their perfume is strong. The camellias are magnificent this year too, with plenty of water for their shallow roots and the Rhododendrons have also enjoyed their regular Winter drinks.

The Reticulata Camellias are already in full flower - Captain Rawes, semi-double and rose-carmine; Dr Louis Polizzi, [a reticulata hybrid] delicate pink; Fire Chief [a reticulata X hybrid] that is a marvellous glowing red as the name suggest; Francie L, a red pink and also a reticulata X hybrid; Lila Naff, a glorious silvery pink with huge wavy edged flowers of more than 12cm across; another beautiful red is Crimson Robe which covers its rather tall and lanky branches with huge wavy edged blooms

There is so much delight in the garden now, I find it very hard to keep on track and finish the weeding. I must do the cleaning up and stop visiting all the plants only to look and dream. The country garden is to be opened to the general public in only a few weeks. The worries creep in - Will this lovely weather last? The few snow falls that have come in past years to "Kibbenjelok", came in September, Tasmania's first Spring month. If cold weather comes, will it stop the Magnolias from flaunting their magnificent blooms? I love to see the furry buds of the Magnolias, Michelias and the ever swelling green buds on all the Rhododendron bushes. I admire their beauty and enjoy the anticipation, but, will the garden visitors be happy with that? No, I am sure they will want to see the plants in glorious colours and enjoy their marvellous perfume

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